AAA: How to deal with ice & freezing rain

Submitted

Sat, Apr 14th 2018 06:20 pm

AAA WCNY offers tips for drivers

The current weather forecast is calling for freezing rain with an ice storm warning in effect for some areas. Despite the calendar saying it is April, drivers need to keep their winter driving skills in place and prepare themselves and their vehicles to combat the elements. If possible, stay home to avoid icy roads and always obey travel bans. If driving is necessary, AAA Western and Central New York has helpful tips for drivers as the weather begins to turn. You can access the AAA brochure on driving in icy conditions HERE or download it HERE.

Frozen Windshields

•If you have access to a garage or a carport, use it! If you have to park outside, try to avoid parking under tree branches, power lines or other objects where ice could fall and strike the vehicle.

•Never pour hot water on an icy windshield; the thermal shock may cause it to break.

•If you can, park facing east to gain some benefits from sun rays.

•Make sure your wipers are turned off before you exit the vehicle. You want to avoid starting a vehicle with wipers turned on in case they are frozen in place.

•Prop up your wipers or cover them with plastic bags so that the rubber blades do not freeze to the windshield.

•Let your car warm up longer than usual to allow defrosters to work to melt ice from the inside out.

•Make sure you have a quality ice scraper to effectively scrape away ice once it begins to soften up. Avoid pounding on the ice and don't use your scraper on painted surfaces.

•Make sure that you have a full supply of winter-quality windshield washer solvent.

•There are commercial de-icer products that can be used to help melt away ice from your windshield or your locks.

Frozen Car Doors

•Doorjamb gaskets can be wiped down with a good quality silicon spray product on a rag before the storm hits. Make sure you check the product label for hazards.

•If you are in a safe area, avoid locking your doors. (Remove all valuables from the vehicle.)

•Use a commercial lock de-icer product on frozen door locks and keys.

•AAA urges drivers to drive with extra caution as the roads become slippery and ice-covered. Ensure your emergency car kit is packed, including warm clothes and a cellphone charger. Should you need roadside assistance, AAA is available by phone - 800-AAA-HELP - or placing a request online at www.AAA.com or via the AAA mobile app.

As upstate New York's largest member services organization, AAA provides nearly 870,000 members with travel, insurance, financial and automotive-related services. Since its founding in 1900, AAA has been a leading advocate for the safety and security of all travelers. Visit AAA at www.AAA.com.